A resolution supporting state legislation increasing the minimum wage in Tennessee.

WHEREAS, the current federal minimum wage of $5.15 per hour has not been increased by Congress over the past ten years; and

WHEREAS, according the Center for Economic and Policy Research, most minimum-wage workers are not offered or cannot afford health insurance from their employer, and many cannot afford quality childcare; and

WHEREAS, two pieces of legislation currently pending in the Tennessee General Assembly would increase the minimum wage in the state of Tennessee to $6.15 per hour and $7.15 per hour, respectively; and

WHEREAS, the legislation increasing the minimum wage from $5.15 per hour to $6.15 per hour (HB3402 sponsored by Representatives McMillan, Langster and Sontany, and SB3120 sponsored by Senators Jackson and Kilby) was approved by the House Government Operations Committee by a 7-5 vote, and referred to the Consumer and Employees Affairs Committee; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council publicly and formally show its support for an increase in the minimum wage for Tennessee workers.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as supporting state legislation increasing the minimum wage in Tennessee.

Section 2. That the Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to each member of the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly.

Section 3. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Jamie Isabel